2013 Pinewood Derby info

Post date: Feb 6, 2013 7:41:04 AM

INTRO

The Pinewood Derby is a unique event in that it's a competition. Cub Scouts doesn't normally have an activity with a clear winner.

In one sense, this means that all but one child might leave the event disappointed. With that in mind, please remember that what's important is that your son DOES HIS BEST.

We use this event to promote sportsmanship and good citizenship, personal achievement, and family togetherness. If your son can cheer on his friends after his car has been eliminated, then we have done something right.

It's always tough to balance how much work you should do on the car versus how much you let your son do. A good rule is that your son should feel like he did it all. He will be more proud of the messy, wobbly car he built himself than the gorgeous one that was built for him. In the end, the kids want to participate.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Sat. Feb. 9 9am-2pm -- car cutting event at Camp Tamarancho in Marin. See pack calendar for details. Rumor has it the BB gun range will be open while kids are waiting for their turn.

Sometime in February -- car cutting event here in SF with Pack 345 parents, dates and times to be arranged

Friday, Mar. 1 -- cubs bring completed cars to pack meeting to be measured and weighed.

Friday, Mar. 8 6pm-9pm -- PINEWOOD DERBY! Note the early start time. If your child can't arrive by 6pm, let us know and we will schedule his car in a later heat.

HOW IT WORKS

At the start of the evening we'll have a final weigh-in and judging. Each car will then race at least once on each of the three lanes of the pack's Pinewood Derby track. The cars that win each heat will move on to the next round until there is a single winner.

Once the competition has begun, only the leaders running the race may touch the cars. If a car needs to be repaired, leaders will supervise it.

In addition to recognition for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, cars will be judged in the following categories:

* Best craftsmanship

* Funniest car

* Most colorful

* Cub's Choice

RULES

Pinewood Derby Car Dimensions:

* The overall length of the car shall not exceed 7 inches.

* The overall width of the car shall not exceed 2 3/4 inches.

* The car must have 1 3/4 clearance between the wheels.

* The car must have 3/8 clearance underneath the body so it does not rub on the track.

Derby Car Weight

* The car weight shall not exceed 5.0 ounces (note that you want your car to be as heavy as possible).

* The official race scale that is used at car check-in shall be considered final.

Wood, Wheels and Axles

* The official pine wood block must be used. The block may be shaped in any way that is desired.

* The BSA wheels that came with your kit must be used. The wheels may not be cut, drilled, beveled, rounded, or filled. You may do light sanding to remove the seams and imperfections from the wheels.

* The axles that came with your kit must be used. The nails may be polished and lubricated using a small amount of dry graphite.

Car Modifications Not Allowed

* Wheel bearings, washers or bushings are prohibited

* The car must not ride on any type of springs

* No starting devices. The car must be freewheeling.

* No loose material of any kind, such as lead shot, may be used.

* Pre-made car kits violate the spirit of this event.

* If you have a question about what is allowed, please check with pack officials before race day.